Multifunctional properties of graphene/rubber nanocomposites fabricated by a modified latex compounding method

A modified latex compounding approach was used to prepare graphene/styrene-butadiene rubber (GE/SBR) nanocomposites with multifunctional properties as well as enhanced mechanical property. It is found that the method is efficient in achieving a molecular level dispersion of GE nanosheets in the rubber matrix. Moreover, the well dispersed GE nanosheets have strong interfacial interaction with SBR. As a result, the mechanical property of SBR is greatly improved. Nearly 11 folds of increase in the tensile strength is attained upon addition of 7 phr of GE, which is comparable to the reinforcement effect of 30 phr of carbon black (N330) or 40 phr of fumed nanosilica. More intriguingly, the GE/SBR nanocomposites have low heat buildup and gas permeability, as well as high wear resistance, thermal stability and electrical conductivity. Such versatile functional properties promise GE/SBR nanocomposites for many new applications, for example, green tires and electronic skin. (C) 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.